Where is lumbar

The lumbar region is situated between the thoracic, or chest, region of the spine, and the sacrum. The lower back region contains large muscles that support the back and allow for movement in the trunk of the body. These muscles can spasm or become strained, which is a common cause of lower back pain. The five vertebrae of the lumbar spine are connected in the back by facet joints, which allow for forward and backward extension, as well as twisting movements.

The two lowest segments in the lumbar spine, L5-S1 and L4-L5 , carry the most weight and have the most movement, making the area prone to injury. In between vertebrae are spinal discs, which cushion the joints of the spine and provide support. Lumbar Spine Anatomy and Pain share pin it Newsletters. By Kara Beasley, DO. Peer Reviewed. Lumbar Spine Anatomy Video Save. Waxenbaum JA, Futterman B.

Anatomy, Back, Lumbar Vertebrae. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Cramer GD. The Lumbar Region. Elsevier; Wilke H-J, Volkheimer D. The bone extends out from the back of the vertebra to form canals for nerves, joints for stability, and attachment sites for muscles.

Here is a list:. Each region of the spine has a directional curve associated with it. The normal curve of the lumbar spine is a lordosis. This is a forward curve that helps keep the discs and muscles in proper alignment.

The lumbar spine rests upon the sacrum. The place where they meet is called the lumbosacral joint , or L5-S1.

One function of the lumbar spine is to protect lumbar nerve roots. These nerves travel from your spinal cord to your buttocks and legs. The lumbar bones create a canal where the nerves are protected. The lumbar spine also serves as an attachment point for muscles. The latissimus , the iliospoas, and the paraspinals all attach at various points of the lumbar bones, helping to move them.

The lumbar spine also serves to help move the body. Motions of the lumbar spine include:. These movements are performed by the muscles attached in the low back, and may vary depending on strength and flexibility. There are many conditions that may affect the lumbar spine. These may include:. These conditions may all result in loss of lumbar mobility, pain, and difficulty with sitting or standing tolerance.

If you have injured your lumbar spine, you may feel various symptoms, including, but not limited to:. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a healthcare provider right away. They can diagnose your condition and get you the right treatment. Treatment for lumbar spine problems usually involves a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises. These exercises may include:.

Working with a chiropractor or physical therapist may be in order to ensure you do the right things for your spine. Your specialist can also show you how to maintain proper posture to help prevent future problems with your lumbar spine.

Most episodes of back pain resolve within a few weeks of onset. You can expect to be back to normal within a month or so.